Volkswagen Polo GTI has arrived
KEY: ENJOY A NEW EXPERIENCE
It has agile drive system, low unladen weight and sports oriented running gear.
Three letters, inextricably associated with Volkswagen: GTI (Gran Turismo Injection). In the new Polo GTI the starter button becomes the trigger for a great driving experience, as the development team has created a style of dynamic handling that facilitates committed driving yet integrates supreme safety and high levels of comfort.
This alliance of dynamism, safety and comfort is the secret behind the success of the GTI concept and a core characteristic of the new Polo GTI.
The GTI key features include an agile drive system, low unladen weight of just 1 355kg, firm sports-oriented running gear that is also good for long-distance driving, assured front-wheel drive as well as an ergonomically ideal sitting position.
This is all packaged in an expressive exterior and interior design and topped off with classic GTI insignia such as the typical red stripe in the radiator grille, the GTI gear knob and Art Velour upholstered sport seats.
It is also equipped with a connected and largely digitalised cockpit which makes the Polo GTI, always offered in four-door format, the ideal compact and affordable sports car.
Naturally, at the heart of every GTI, there is the engine. In recent times the GTI has always been powered by high-torque turbocharged engines. In the case of the new Polo GTI, it is a 2.0-litre direct-injection petrol engine with an output of 147kW. Like the Golf GTI, the new Polo GTI will be represented in the 2.0-litre turbo class for the first time.
The 1 988cc engine has a compression ratio of 11.65:1. The GTI unit delivers its maximum power between 4 400 and 6 000rpm. This power plant of the third generation EA888 engine series transmits its maximum torque of 320Nm to the front wheels at a low 1 500rpm; this high torque figure stays constant up to a speed of 4 400rpm – giving the GTI engine a torque curve that is hardly traditional; it features an extremely sporty torque plateau.
The hot hatch launches with a six-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) as standard and this is said to accelerate the Polo GTI to 100km/h in 6.7sec. Top speed is claimed at 237km/h and despite its power output, the Polo GTI can be driven economically, thanks to its efficient drive technology that allows a claimed fuel consumption of 5.9l/100km.
The Polo GTI is offered with two different running gear configurations. It is based on a sport suspension; while the optional Sport Select suspension with active dampers is available as an option. Like all Polo models, the GTI is equipped with electromechanical power steering and electronic stability control (ESC). Also on-board is the XDS differential lock, which further refines traction when cornering quickly.
The new Polo, and thus the Polo GTI too, are launching as the first Volkswagen Group models to feature a new generation of the Active Info Display. Volkswagen interface designers have systematically advanced the next generation of the Active Info Display and have elevated its high-quality graphics and functional range to new levels.
Using a view button on the multifunction steering wheel, the Polo GTI driver can now also switch between three basic layouts easily and quickly.
The Polo GTI also offers numerous details as standard.
Beyond the GTI-specific design features, these include additional curtain front and rear, the XDS differential lock, driving profile selection, Composition Media infotainment system, ambient lighting (white), door sill trims with GTI logo, air conditioning, front fog lights and cornering lights, LED tail light clusters, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, floor mats front and rear, electric windows all around with convenience switching, and multifunction display plus.
The car can also be equipped with a large range of optional convenience and assistance systems.
Two other optional equipment highlights are the largest panoramic sunroof in its class and advanced safety package (which includes parallel park assist, park distance control, rear view camera, blind spot detection and electric folding mirrors).